A Look Back at the 40th Annual Global Trade Summit | | |
The John H. Chafee Center for International Business recently hosted the 40th Annual Global Trade Summit at Bryant University, bringing together business executives, policymakers, economists, and industry experts for a day focused on the future of international commerce.
The Summit explored some of the most important issues shaping today’s global business environment, including tariffs and trade policy, supply-chain resilience, artificial intelligence, automation, economic uncertainty, and international market opportunities. Speakers and panelists shared insights on emerging technologies, economic trends, logistics, innovation, and Rhode Island’s growing opportunities in global markets.
The 40th anniversary marked an exciting milestone for an event that has been a longstanding forum for international business and trade in Rhode Island. Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees for helping make this year’s Summit a success!
Enjoy a few photos from this year’s 40th annual Global Trade Summit below.
| | NVTS Takes Home First RI STEP Company of the Year Award | | Congratulations to Julie Janson and the team at NVTS Night Vision Technology Solutions on receiving the first annual RI STEP company of the year award. NVTS builds thermal and night vision camera systems in Rhode Island that help military and maritime operators see and stay safe in the dark, and the company has taken that technology to customers around the world. In partnership with the Chafee Center, Julie and NVTS have made the most of STEP, using trade missions, international trade shows and business matchmaking to open new markets. We are proud to have NVTS representing Rhode Island abroad and look forward to its continued success. | | | |
Something exciting is coming to the John H. Chafee Center for International Business!
As the organization continues to grow and strengthen its role in connecting Rhode Island businesses with opportunities in the global marketplace, a new chapter is on the horizon.
Soon, the Chafee Center will officially embrace its identity as World Trade Center Rhode Island, bringing a renewed brand and a continued commitment to helping Rhode Island businesses connect, compete, and grow internationally.
New name. New look. Same commitment to Rhode Island’s global business community.
Stay tuned. We can’t wait to share what’s next.
| | Big Changes. Same Global Mission. | | |
Strategy for Canada: Navigating Opportunities in Changing Trade Dynamics
October 14, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Virtual | No Cost
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Join the RI SBDC and Chafee Center at Bryant University for a webinar exploring opportunities for Rhode Island businesses in the Canadian market. Participants will learn about promising sectors, cross-border business opportunities, and practical strategies for entering and growing in Canada through exporting, e-commerce, distributors, and strategic partnerships.
Speaker: Chelsea Brehm, RI SBDC Northern Center Director
| | Bryant Students Take on International Trade Project | |
Through the Practicum Program, Bryant International Business students Skyler Caparas, Inaya Chokshi, Anthony Sullivan, and Claire Carroll are serving as consultants for the John H. Chafee Center for International Business and the Blue Venture Forum. The students are working on the planning of an Ocean Economy STEP Trade Mission in 2027, gaining hands-on experience in international trade, market development, and trade mission planning while supporting a real-world project focused on expanding opportunities for Rhode Island businesses.
| New Funding Opportunity for U.S.-Israel R&D Partnerships | | |
The BIRD Foundation is currently accepting proposals for its 2027 General Program, offering non-dilutive funding for joint U.S.-Israel industrial research and development projects. The opportunity supports collaborations in high-tech sectors including Energy, Communications, Cybersecurity, FinTech, and FoodTech.
The Chafee Center recently connected with Andrea Yonah of the BIRD Foundation to learn more about the program and how it can support companies pursuing international R&D partnerships. Businesses interested in exploring a U.S.-Israel collaboration can submit an Executive Summary by November 23, 2026.
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Understanding Foreign-Trade Zones: Opportunities for Rhode Island Businesses
October 30th, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Bryant University
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Join Rhode Island Commerce for an informative session on how Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs) can help Rhode Island businesses navigate today’s tariff environment. Scott Taylor, Member and Foreign-Trade Zones Practice Leader at Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A., will provide an overview of FTZs, including opportunities to reduce, defer, or mitigate customs duties and manage tariff exposure.
The session is designed for manufacturers, supply chain providers, distributors and warehouse operators, importers, and exporters. Light refreshments will be provided.
| | Invest in Your Future with the Amica Center | | |
The Amica Center for Career Education at Bryant University offers students countless opportunities to build the skills, connections, and confidence needed for career success. Throughout the 2026–2027 academic year, students can participate in career fairs, networking events, resume and interview workshops, employer engagement opportunities, and professional development programs designed to help them stand out in today's competitive job market.
From LinkedIn photo booths and resume reviews to industry trips and specialized workshops, the Amica Center provides valuable resources that support students at every stage of their career journey. Whether you're preparing for your first internship or planning for life after graduation, the Amica Center is here to help you take the next step toward your professional goals.
| | Resources to Help Grow Your Food Business Internationally | |
Resources to Help Grow Your Food Business Internationally
Looking to expand your food business into international markets? Food Export offers a range of resources to help businesses explore global opportunities, build export knowledge, and connect with international buyers.
Explore Food Export's 2027 Event Calendar, featuring buyer missions, trade shows, and trade missions designed to connect U.S. food and agricultural companies with global buyers and new market opportunities.
If you're new to exporting or just beginning to explore international opportunities, Food Export's Export Readiness Program is a great place to start. This free, self-paced online program features eight interactive modules covering key export topics and helps participants develop a customized export strategy for their business. The program is designed to build confidence, strengthen export knowledge, and prepare companies for international growth.
Food Export also offers educational webinars throughout the year covering topics such as export readiness, market trends, international sales strategies, and other resources for businesses looking to expand globally. These virtual sessions provide valuable insights and practical information to help companies navigate the export process.
Interested in participating or have questions? Contact the Chafee Center at chafee@bryant.edu for more information.
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November 4
8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
In Person: Warwick, RI
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Beyond the Business Card
Hosted by: Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce
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November 5
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
In Person: Smithfield, RI (Bryant University)
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Eggs & Issues Special Edition: Construction, Development & the Future of Northern Rhode Island
Hosted by: Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce
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November 17
8:30 - 9:30 p.m.
In Person: Providence, RI
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Together Tuesday Networking for Business Professionals
Hosted by: Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce
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November 19
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
In Person: TBD
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Resource Roadshow
Hosted by: Polaris featuring RI Commerce and Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce
| | | International Trade Shows | | |
February 16-19
Georgetown, Guyana
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Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo
An international conference focused on Guyana’s energy industry, supply chains, and economic development.
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March 1-3
National Harbor, Maryland
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Plastics Recycling Conference
The Plastics Recycling Conference will spotlight evolving industry trends and obstacles alongside scalable solutions advancing the future of plastics recycling.
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April 5-8
Miami Beach, Florida
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Seatrade Cruise Global
Connect, collaborate, and explore growth opportunities alongside top suppliers and industry experts in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment crafted for innovation and success.
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NPE: The Plastics Show
A major international plastics industry event showcasing the latest technologies, innovations, and business opportunities across the plastics supply chain.
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